Improving student outcomes in the VET sector through effective professional development for teachers: enabling Learn Locals to lead the way

The Victorian Department of Education and Training (Higher Education and Skills Group - HESG) prioritises improving the quality of delivery in the vocational education and training (VET) sector, yet there is not a systematic approach to the professional development (PD) of teachers. The aim of this study tour was to investigate PD approaches in North America, with a view to informing improvements in the Victorian model. In March/April 2017, the author attended the TESOL conference in Seattle, USA and met with innovative practitioners and researchers in Calgary, Canada and Minnesota, USA where she deepened her understanding of PD and pedagogical approaches, as well as PD models. The overarching theme of effective PD approaches observed by the author is that PD needs to be sustained, rather than occasional one-off events, in order for teachers to engage in systematic reflection. Teachers should be actively engaged in their own PD, with opportunities to be collegiate and to consider how research can inform classroom practice. Pedagogical approaches to teaching EAL/Literacy learners which were observed centred around implementing teaching strategies which increase the level of rigour in the classroom. Effective teachers need to ensure that every activity has a purpose which relates to skill building for the learner. Numeracy should be embedded in EAL/Literacy lessons and pronunciation should be taught explicitly, as well as incidentally throughout a lesson. The model of PD for teachers of EAL/Literacy teachers in Minnesota, USA is a very systematic one which could inform the approach in Victoria. This Fellowship can inform improved PD approaches in the Learn Local sector specifically and in the VET sector more broadly.

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